Not all nonstick is the same, so what should you look for when you want the best nonstick cookware? First, choose the material for your cookware’s construction. Will it be stainless steel? Aluminum? Not all non-sticks are applied to all materials. Then look for a brand name that you can independently research. DuPont and Whitford are two of the largest brands, and they each make a variety of different coatings. This is one product category that you must research with the pr;s, never rely on customer reviews.
Why Shouldn’t I Pay Attention to Customer Reviews?
All non-stick surfaces break down over time. They will all work amazingly well when you first use them. When do people typically write reviews? After the first few uses, when the excitement is still there and everything is fresh in their minds. The true test of a non-stick is how long it lasts. Negative reviews on non-sticks should also be taken with a grain of salt because there is a wide range of opinions among consumers about how non-stick cookware should be cared for. Just because it is non-stick doesn’t mean it is indestructible. It must be cleaned properly and promptly.
Ok, So Who Are the Pros?
Two of the biggest suppliers of quality non-stick coatings for cookware companies are Whitford and DuPont. Look for these brand names on cookware boxes and in the use and care manuals:
Whitford:
Gourmet – Eterna, Excalibur, Eclipse, Halo
Moderate – Quantanium, Quantum 2, Fusion
Budget – Xylan
DuPont:
Gourmet – Teflon Platinum, Teflon Platinum Plus
Moderate – Teflon Select
Budget – Teflon Classic, Teflon Extra
What is the Risk if I Buy a Generic Non-stick?
The only real risk is the life of the product. If the non-stick is not applied properly to the pan, it can peel or flake. Think about th:s, how does a non-stick coating stick to the pan? Good question, right? The technology is pretty advanced, and the proper procedure for the application must be followed correctly. Both Whitford and Dupont are huge international corporations with large support staffs to educate manufacturers as to the best methods to ensure the best quality.
